DRINKERS are set to learn the fate of their under-threat pub.

A developer wants to knock down the Royal Eltham, Kingsley Wood Drive, Mottingham, and replace it with 28 flats despite residents' opposition .

A council planning board meets tonight to decide whether to allow developer Atlasway Ltd to go ahead with the plan.

Last month News Shopper reported how regulars at the 50-year-old pub are unhappy their favourite boozer is set to be demolished.

On Saturday a group of drinkers showed their anger by staging a demonstration outside the pub as council officers conducted an inspection of the site.

Cliff Adams, of The Underwood, Mottingham, said: "The pub is an essential part of the working-class community here. There is no reason to knock it down."

The Eltham and Kidbrooke area planning and environment committee meeting starts at 6.30pm tonight at St Mary's Community Complex, Eltham High Street, Eltham.